The Warriors don't exactly have time to be rooting for a favorite team at the top of the Western Conference playoff standings, but if they did, no doubt it would be Sunday's opponent, the Hornets.
The networks probably would have a blast with the potential 8-versus-1 matchup as well. When the Warriors visit New Orleans this weekend, they will be looking to sweep their two road games against the West's current top team this season. Golden State prevailed 116-103 the first time around on Jan. 30.
That was 26 days after the Hornets had flown out of Oakland with a 116-104 triumph over the Warriors.
In other words, when these two meet, anything can happen. And it's usually entertaining, too.
WARRIORS 117, GRIZZLIES 86: Demoralized after a crushing defeat at Dallas on Wednesday night, the Warriors needed a pick-me-up Friday. A confidence-booster. A glorified scrimmage. Yes, a game against the Grizzlies.
Taking control from the get-go and getting high-output performances from unusual sources, the Warriors recorded more than just a much-needed win in Memphis. They recorded a much-needed rout.
Marco Belinelli was the story of the game. Told beforehand he'd get an opportunity to match up with fellow European guard Juan Carlos Navarro, the Italian made the most of his opportunity, scoring a season-best 13 points in 23 minutes.
The win allowed the Warriors to gain a half-game on Denver in their battle for the eighth and final playoff spot in the West, while also erasing one of the Golden State's three remaining road games. Now there are just two in the final six games, one being Sunday's trip-ender in New Orleans.
